DRAPER -- The entertainment industry is often portrayed as racy, scandalous and sketchy -- not the environment most parents would want to throw their child into. But one Utah woman is selling a different side.

You don't always hear the phrases "high fashion" and "high standards" in the same sentence -- but for Amber Evans, they can be one and the same.

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As a former director for a top talent agency and a former model, herself, Evans knows what it takes to succeed in the competitive and often compromising world of runways and photo shoots.

But after more than 20 years in the industry, she felt the need to take her experience and her values in a different direction -- according to Evans, in the right direction.

"I couldn't do it any other way," she said. "If I was going to be a talent agency, I wanted to represent only healthy role models in the media and be able to turn away clients I felt didn't line up with my values."

That's why Evans recently founded Stars Talent Studio, an agency that works with young models, actors and performers who want to succeed in the entertainment industry without selling out.

Each young talent must sign a code of conduct, agreeing not to drink or smoke in public, not to engage in eating disorders, and to stand as an example to others. singer/songwriter Ray Unutoa.

"We want them to be aware of their public image and how they can have an influence on others and be an example to others when they are a model or an actor, or in the public eye," Evans explains.

It's an opportunity that appealed to 16-year-old "I wouldn't have to be something I'm not just to get out there," he said.

Aspiring model Sophia Osmond agrees.

"Especially in the entertainment industry people set standards for themselves and then lower them because of worldly expectations," she said. "It's really cool to be in an environment where I don't have to do that."

According to Evans, that is a huge success.

"Integrity, virtue and moral excellence -- that's the success I believe is true success," she said.

Evans admits her higher standard has cost her a few jobs and bookings, but overall, response from outside agencies and casting directors has been positive.

They've told her clean conduct on the outside usually translates to helpful inner qualities as well, such as punctuality, work ethic and attitude.

Email: bwalker@ksl.com

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